Best Bars in Napier: Discover the Top 5 Havens for Unforgettable Nights Out
Searching for the best bars in Napier to enjoy a vibrant evening in Hawke’s Bay? Napier, renowned for its Art Deco charm and thriving culinary scene, offers a dynamic bar scene that blends sophisticated cocktail lounges, craft beer havens, and waterfront gems. We’ve handpicked five exceptional bars in Ahuriri and the CBD, each celebrated for their quality drinks, unique atmospheres, and warm hospitality, catering to locals, tourists, and wine enthusiasts alike.
These Napier bars showcase the region’s rich beverage culture, serving local wines, innovative cocktails, and hearty fare in settings that range from cozy to scenic. Explore our detailed guide to uncover their offerings, standout features, and why they’re the top destinations for a memorable night out in the Art Deco capital of the world.
1. Monica Loves
About the Business
Monica Loves, nestled on Tennyson Street in Napier’s CBD, is a chic cocktail bar and eatery known for its Art Deco-inspired elegance and vibrant energy. Opened in 2018, this intimate venue has quickly become a local favorite, offering a sophisticated yet approachable atmosphere. Run by a passionate team, Monica Loves combines creative drinks with a menu that celebrates Hawke’s Bay’s produce, making it a standout in Napier’s nightlife.
Key Services / What They Offer
They serve an extensive cocktail menu featuring classics like Negronis and signature creations, alongside Hawke’s Bay wines and craft beers. The food menu includes sharing plates such as lamb croquettes, smoked fish tacos, and vegan options, with a focus on local ingredients. Monica Loves hosts live music, DJ nights, and private events, with a cozy indoor space and a small outdoor area for warm evenings.
Who It’s For
Perfect for couples on date nights, young professionals, foodies, and groups seeking a stylish bar with great drinks and live entertainment.
What to Expect
Expect a glamorous, dimly lit interior with Art Deco accents, velvet seating, and a lively yet intimate vibe. The staff are skilled mixologists, crafting cocktails with precision and offering pairing suggestions for the menu. Live music or DJ sets add energy on weekends, and the food is beautifully presented, ideal for sharing. The bar’s central location makes it a convenient stop, and the atmosphere is perfect for both romantic evenings and social gatherings.
Standout Features
- Art Deco-inspired cocktail bar with a chic ambiance.
- Creative cocktail menu with local Hawke’s Bay wines.
- Regular live music and DJ nights for entertainment.
- Sharing plates featuring regional produce.
Customer Feedback
“The cocktails were phenomenal, and the vibe was so elegant,” a patron raved. Guests love the stylish setting, attentive service, and flavorful food, often recommending it for special nights out.
Why Choose Them?
Monica Loves’ Art Deco charm, creative cocktails, and lively entertainment make it a must-visit for a sophisticated, memorable night in Napier.
Location & Contact Details
Address: Your business? Get in touch to update your physical address.
Phone: Your business? Get in touch to update your phone number.
Website: monicaloves.co.nz
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
2. The Gintrap Restaurant & Bar
About the Business
The Gintrap Restaurant & Bar, located on West Quay in Ahuriri, is a waterfront gem offering stunning marina views and a relaxed yet upscale atmosphere. Established as a premier dining and drinking destination, The Gintrap is renowned for its extensive gin selection and seafood-focused menu. Their commitment to local Hawke’s Bay produce and warm hospitality has made them a favorite for locals and visitors.
Key Services / What They Offer
They boast over 100 gins, serving signature G&Ts and gin-based cocktails, alongside local wines and craft beers. The menu features seafood dishes like fresh fish tacos and mussel fritters, plus hearty options like lamb rump. The Gintrap offers outdoor dining with marina views, private function spaces, and occasional live music. Their gin-tasting events and cocktail masterclasses add a unique touch.
Who It’s For
Suited for seafood lovers, gin enthusiasts, tourists, and those seeking a scenic waterfront bar for casual or special occasions.
What to Expect
Expect a bright, airy space with floor-to-ceiling windows and a spacious outdoor deck overlooking the marina, creating a relaxed yet elegant vibe. The staff are knowledgeable, recommending gin pairings or local wines, and the service is attentive. The seafood is fresh, sourced from Hawke’s Bay waters, and the cocktails are expertly crafted. The waterfront setting is perfect for sunset drinks, making every visit a scenic experience.
Standout Features
- Over 100 gins with curated G&T and cocktail menus.
- Waterfront location with marina views in Ahuriri.
- Seafood-focused menu with local Hawke’s Bay produce.
- Gin-tasting events and cocktail masterclasses.
Customer Feedback
“The gin selection and marina view made our evening unforgettable,” a guest shared. Customers praise the fresh seafood, extensive gin menu, and stunning location, often noting it’s ideal for romantic or group outings.
Why Choose Them?
The Gintrap’s waterfront charm, vast gin selection, and fresh seafood make it a top destination for a scenic, flavorful night out in Napier.
Location & Contact Details
Address: Your business? Get in touch to update your physical address.
Phone: Your business? Get in touch to update your phone number.
Website: thegintrap.co.nz
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
3. The Rose Irish Pub
About the Business
The Rose Irish Pub, situated on Hastings Street in Napier’s CBD, is a beloved traditional pub with a lively, welcoming atmosphere. Established as a cornerstone of the city’s social scene, this authentic Irish pub offers a taste of Ireland with its dark wood interiors and hearty fare. Known for its community spirit and live entertainment, The Rose is a go-to for a classic pub experience.
Key Services / What They Offer
They serve a range of on-tap beers, including Guinness and local craft brews, alongside Irish whiskeys, wines, and spirits. The menu features pub classics like beef and Guinness pie, fish and chips, and Irish stew, with vegetarian options. The Rose hosts live music, quiz nights, and sports screenings, with a spacious outdoor courtyard. They offer function spaces for private events and a kids’ menu for family visits.
Who It’s For
Great for sports fans, families, groups of friends, and those seeking a traditional Irish pub with live music and hearty meals.
What to Expect
Expect a cozy, Irish-inspired interior with wooden booths, a sculpted bar, and a bustling atmosphere, especially during live music or sports events. The staff are friendly and efficient, creating a welcoming vibe for all. The food is hearty and flavorful, perfect for pairing with a pint, and the outdoor courtyard is a hit on sunny days. The pub’s central location makes it a convenient stop for a casual night out.
Standout Features
- Authentic Irish pub with Guinness and live music.
- Hearty menu featuring Irish classics and local fare.
- Regular quiz nights and sports screenings.
- Family-friendly with a kids’ menu and outdoor courtyard.
Customer Feedback
“The Irish stew and live music made it a fantastic night,” a patron noted. Guests love the authentic pub vibe, friendly staff, and vibrant events, often recommending it for group gatherings.
Why Choose Them?
The Rose Irish Pub’s authentic Irish charm, hearty food, and lively entertainment make it a reliable choice for a fun, social night in Napier.
Location & Contact Details
Address: Your business? Get in touch to update your physical address.
Phone: Your business? Get in touch to update your phone number.
Website: theroseirishpub.co.nz
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
4. Emporium Eatery and Bar
About the Business
Emporium Eatery and Bar, located in the Masonic Hotel on Tennyson Street, is a stylish gastropub blending Art Deco elegance with modern flair. Part of Napier’s historic Masonic building, this upscale venue is known for its sophisticated ambiance and focus on Hawke’s Bay’s culinary and beverage heritage. The Emporium offers a refined yet relaxed experience, making it a favorite for locals and visitors.
Key Services / What They Offer
They serve a curated selection of Hawke’s Bay wines, craft beers, and cocktails, with a focus on local distilleries. The menu features elevated pub fare, including smoked brisket, seafood chowder, and vegan dishes, using regional ingredients. The Emporium hosts wine-tasting events, live acoustic music, and offers private dining rooms for functions. Their outdoor terrace is perfect for people-watching in the CBD.
Who It’s For
Ideal for foodies, professionals, couples, and tourists seeking an upscale gastropub with local flavors and a historic setting.
What to Expect
Expect a polished, Art Deco-inspired interior with plush seating, chandeliers, and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The staff are attentive, offering wine or cocktail recommendations, and the service is seamless. The food is artfully plated, showcasing Hawke’s Bay’s produce, and the drinks menu is diverse, catering to refined tastes. The terrace offers a lively spot for sunny afternoons, and the venue’s historic charm adds a unique touch to every visit.
Standout Features
- Upscale gastropub in the historic Masonic Hotel.
- Focus on Hawke’s Bay wines and local ingredients.
- Live acoustic music and wine-tasting events.
- Outdoor terrace with Art Deco CBD views.
Customer Feedback
“The brisket and local wine were divine, and the setting is gorgeous,” a guest shared. Customers praise the elegant ambiance, high-quality food, and excellent service, often recommending it for special occasions.
Why Choose Them?
Emporium Eatery and Bar’s historic elegance, local flavors, and refined atmosphere make it a top pick for a sophisticated night out in Napier.
Location & Contact Details
Address: Your business? Get in touch to update your physical address.
Phone: Your business? Get in touch to update your phone number.
Website: emporiumbar.co.nz
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
5. The Thirsty Whale Bar & Restaurant
About the Business
The Thirsty Whale Bar & Restaurant, perched on West Quay in Ahuriri, is a lively waterfront venue known for its stunning ocean views and relaxed vibe. A Napier staple, this bar and eatery combines a family-friendly atmosphere with a focus on fresh, local cuisine and a diverse drinks menu. Its prime location and vibrant energy make it a popular choice for locals and tourists seeking a coastal night out.
Key Services / What They Offer
They offer a wide range of drinks, including craft beers, Hawke’s Bay wines, and classic cocktails, with a focus on local brews. The menu features seafood dishes like fish of the day and prawn linguine, alongside burgers and vegetarian options. The Thirsty Whale hosts live music, quiz nights, and sports screenings, with a large outdoor deck for waterfront dining. They provide function spaces for events and a kids’ menu.
Who It’s For
Suitable for families, seafood lovers, groups, and tourists wanting a lively waterfront bar with entertainment and coastal views.
What to Expect
Expect a spacious, modern venue with a nautical theme and a large outdoor deck overlooking the Pacific Ocean, creating a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere. The staff are friendly, ensuring quick service, and the seafood is fresh, sourced from local waters. Live music or quiz nights add a fun vibe, and the deck is perfect for sunset drinks. The bar’s family-friendly approach, with a kids’ play area, makes it welcoming for all ages.
Standout Features
- Waterfront location with Pacific Ocean views in Ahuriri.
- Fresh seafood menu with local Hawke’s Bay produce.
- Live music, quiz nights, and sports screenings.
- Family-friendly with a kids’ menu and play area.
Customer Feedback
“The ocean view and fresh fish were amazing, and the kids loved it,” a customer noted. Guests praise the scenic setting, lively atmosphere, and quality food, often recommending it for family outings or group nights.
Why Choose Them?
The Thirsty Whale’s waterfront location, fresh cuisine, and family-friendly vibe make it a versatile, vibrant choice for a memorable night in Napier.
Location & Contact Details
Address: Your business? Get in touch to update your physical address.
Phone: Your business? Get in touch to update your phone number.
Website: thirstywhale.co.nz
Hours: Your business? Get in touch to update your opening hours.
Conclusion: Your Perfect Night Awaits at Napier’s Best Bars
Discovering the best bars in Napier unlocks a world of unforgettable evenings, from Monica Loves’ Art Deco elegance to The Thirsty Whale’s waterfront charm. The Gintrap, The Rose Irish Pub, and Emporium Eatery and Bar each bring unique flavors, offering gin-focused sophistication, Irish pub vibrancy, and historic gastropub flair. These bars shine with their quality drinks, local Hawke’s Bay ingredients, and warm hospitality, ensuring a night out to suit every taste.
Ready to explore Napier’s nightlife? Visit one of these top Napier bars tonight for a drink, a meal, or a lively evening. With their distinct atmospheres and exceptional offerings, you’re guaranteed a memorable experience in the heart of Hawke’s Bay’s Art Deco capital.
Helpful Information About Napier Bars
Nestled in the heart of Hawke’s Bay, the coastal city of Napier offers an exciting mix of nightlife venues that cater to a wide range of tastes and occasions. From the Art Deco charm of the CBD to the laid-back vibe of seaside Ahuriri, Napier bars reflect the region’s rich wine culture, creative culinary scene, and welcoming community atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for artisan cocktails, live music, or waterfront views, you’ll find it in one of Napier’s popular nightlife spots.
As a well-known hub for both locals and tourists, Napier’s bar scene showcases locally sourced produce, regional wines, and a deep appreciation for hospitality. You’ll find venues near iconic landmarks like Marine Parade and the Napier Sound Shell, and in easy-to-access neighborhoods such as Napier South and the trendy portside village of Ahuriri. With options ranging from bustling pubs to refined wine bars, there’s something for everyone searching for a memorable night out in Napier.
Choosing the Right Bar in Napier
- Consider the type of atmosphere you’re looking for—Napier offers everything from stylish cocktail lounges to casual, waterfront pubs in areas like Ahuriri and the city center.
- If you’re a fan of local craft beverages, choose a bar known for serving Hawke’s Bay wines, beers, or gin from regional distilleries.
- Look for venues that offer live entertainment, such as acoustic music or DJ nights, if you’re hoping to enjoy a lively evening with performances.
- Think about the food menu—many top Napier bars feature locally inspired dishes, ideal if you’re planning dinner and drinks in one place.
- Outdoor seating with sea views or Art Deco ambiance can enhance your experience, especially on warm evenings—popular in both Napier CBD and Ahuriri.
- Check bar opening hours and function offerings if you’re planning a group event or special celebration in Napier.
Frequently Asked Questions About Napier Bars
What types of bars can I find in Napier?
Napier offers a diverse range of bars, including sophisticated cocktail lounges, traditional pubs, wine bars, and waterfront venues. Whether you’re after a quiet glass of wine or a lively night out with music and dancing, there’s a bar to match your vibe.
Are there bars in Napier with ocean or marina views?
Yes, several bars in the Ahuriri area feature outdoor decks and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean or local marinas. These spots are especially popular during sunset hours and summer evenings, offering a scenic and relaxing atmosphere.
Is Napier’s bar scene suitable for families or large groups?
Many bars in Napier are family-friendly during the day and early evening, especially those with spacious settings or outdoor areas. Some bars also offer dedicated kids’ menus or cater to private functions and group events.
Do bars in Napier serve local Hawke’s Bay wine and craft beer?
Absolutely. Most bars in Napier take pride in showcasing the best of Hawke’s Bay’s wine and craft beer scene, often featuring labels from nearby wineries and breweries. It’s a great chance to sample local flavors without leaving the city.
Are there any late-night bars or live music venues in Napier?
Yes, several bars in Napier stay open late and host live music events or DJ nights on weekends. These venues are typically located in the central business district and along the Ahuriri waterfront, making them easy to access for a vibrant night out.
